This week in Wandsworth:

St. George's Hospital Faces Scrutiny Over Performance and Financial Challenges

The Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee met this week to examine the performance of St. George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. The Trust presented a detailed report highlighting both areas of progress and significant ongoing challenges, particularly concerning financial stability and patient care pathways. Read the full meeting details here.

Performance Update: Mixed Results for St. George's

The committee received an update on the Trust's operational performance, which showed a mixed picture. While emergency department four-hour performance remained strong, with nearly 13,000 attendances in December 2025, challenges persist in patient flow and waiting times for certain treatments.

• The Stakes: The performance of St. George's directly impacts the health and well-being of Wandsworth residents. Delays in treatment, particularly for long-wait pathways and cancer care, can have serious consequences for patients' health outcomes and quality of life.
• Progress and Challenges: The Trust has made headway in eliminating 65-week waiters and is focusing on reducing 52-week waiters. Diagnostic performance and faster cancer diagnosis standards are also within the upper quartile. However, the 62-day cancer standard remains a challenge, partly due to limited theatre capacity.
• Winter Pressures: The report detailed preparations for winter pressures, including communications to guide residents to appropriate services like NHS 111 online, GP hubs, and pharmacies for non-emergency needs.
• Financial Strain: A significant concern is the Trust's financial outlook. While forecasting a breakeven for 2025/26, the projected deficit for 2026/27 is £87.9 million, expected to rise to £108.8 million due to reduced deficit support funding. This financial pressure could impact service delivery and investment in patient care.
• Industrial Action: The report acknowledged the impact of industrial action by junior doctors and healthcare assistants, which led to the rescheduling of elective procedures and outpatient appointments.
• CQC Ratings: Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspections revealed that urgent and emergency care, and surgery, were rated as 'requires improvement', with surgery dropping from a 'good' rating. Maternity services improved from 'inadequate' to 'requires improvement', and the Trust's leadership was also rated as 'requires improvement'.

Councillor George Crivelli, the opposition's spokesman on health, questioned the feasibility of meeting government targets for waiting times, noting the current performance of around 60% against a target of 65% by March 2026. He also probed the ambitious savings target of £90.6 million, asking for guarantees that patient care would not be compromised. The Trust assured the committee that rigorous quality impact assessments, led by clinical staff, are in place to safeguard services.

Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG): A Call for Consistent Prevention

The committee also reviewed the findings and recommendations of the Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) Task and Finish Group. The report highlighted a strong desire from young people to engage in conversations about VAWG, but noted that current educational approaches are often inconsistent.

• The Stakes: Effective prevention strategies are crucial for protecting women and girls from violence and abuse. Inconsistent or fragmented approaches can leave vulnerable individuals without the support and education they need.
• Key Themes: The report identified five key themes:
  • Young people want to discuss VAWG, but education is not consistent.
  • Online spaces can lead to young people experiencing harmful content in isolation.
  • A sense of belonging, fostered by accessible activities, is important for young people.
  • Prevention services exist but are not always visible or connected.
  • Prevention strategies need to be inclusive and culturally competent.
• Recommendations: The group recommended enhancing VAWG prevention in schools through co-produced interventions, ensuring a robust systems approach across agencies, and maintaining ongoing engagement with survivors, particularly from seldom-heard communities.

Adult Social Care Performance: Strengths and Areas for Development

The committee received the 2024/25 Adult Social Care Outcomes Framework Indicators Annual Performance Report. Wandsworth's performance was generally strong, with 70% of indicators in the top two quartiles compared to London and nationally.

• The Stakes: The quality of adult social care directly impacts the independence, well-being, and safety of vulnerable residents, including the elderly and those with disabilities.
• Positive Indicators: Wandsworth ranked highly for social contact and satisfaction with care and support. All residential adult social care providers are rated as good or outstanding by the CQC.
• Areas for Improvement: The 'adjusted social care quality of life indicator' moved into the lowest quartile nationally, and performance on older people discharged from hospital into reablement who remain in the community within 12 weeks was also in the lowest quartile in London. The report noted that providers are reporting improvements in staff recruitment, though retention remains a challenge.

Cabinet Approves Balanced Budget and Significant Capital Investments

Wandsworth's Cabinet met on Monday, 23 February 2026, to approve the council's budget and council tax for the upcoming year, alongside significant additions to the capital programme. Read the full meeting details here.

Council Tax Freeze Maintained, Adult Social Care Precept Increased

The Cabinet approved a balanced budget for the fourth consecutive year, freezing the main element of council tax for the fourth year running. This decision aims to ease the financial burden on residents, particularly those most vulnerable.

• The Stakes: This decision directly affects household budgets across Wandsworth. While a council tax freeze is welcome, the 2% increase in the adult social care precept reflects the growing demand and cost of supporting elderly and vulnerable residents, a critical service for many families.
• Financial Prudence: The freeze was achieved through sound financial management, resulting in high reserves and low debt. Despite the Local Government Finance Settlement disadvantaging Wandsworth, the council's strategy allows for this freeze.
• Adult Social Care: A 2% increase for the adult social care precept was implemented to protect essential services for those who rely on them.

Over £52 Million Added to Capital Programme

The Cabinet also approved significant additions to the General Fund Capital Programme, totalling £52.3 million for 2026/27 and future years. This investment is part of the council's decade of renewal strategy.

• The Stakes: These capital investments are crucial for improving local infrastructure, leisure facilities, and community spaces, benefiting residents for years to come. However, the funding mix, including borrowing, requires careful long-term financial planning.
• Key Projects: Major investments include £19.5 million for a new family and community building at Portswood Place as part of the Alton Estate regeneration, £12.5 million for leisure facilities including new 3G pitches, and £8 million for highway and public realm improvements.
• Funding Sources: The investment will be funded through grants, developer contributions, reserves, and borrowing.

Other Key Decisions

The Cabinet also reviewed the Treasury Management Policy, the Schools Maintenance Capital Programme, and the Biodiversity Action Plan. A report from the Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) Task and Finish Group was also presented, recommending enhanced prevention strategies in schools and a more robust systems approach across agencies.

Richmond and Wandsworth Joint Staffing Committee Discusses Workforce and Pay Policy

The Richmond and Wandsworth Joint Staffing Committee met on Tuesday, 24 February 2026, to review workforce indicators, consider the proposed pay policy for the upcoming financial year, and discuss family leave policies. Read the full meeting details here.

Workforce Indicators Show Declining Turnover

The committee received an update on workforce indicators for the third quarter of 2025/26. A key positive trend was a declining turnover rate, which stood at 11.8% by the end of December 2025, below the London average.

• The Stakes: A stable workforce is essential for delivering consistent and high-quality public services. High staff turnover can lead to service disruption, increased recruitment costs, and a loss of institutional knowledge.
• Positive Trends: The report also noted an increase in permanent staff and an improvement in recruitment efficiency, with the average time to hire falling significantly. Sickness absence also decreased, with an average of eight days lost per employee.
• Areas for Concern: Despite positive trends, mental health issues remain the most significant contributor to long-term sickness. Agency staffing expenditure was also highlighted as a significant cost, exceeding £21 million for 2025/26.

Proposed Pay Policy for 2026/27

The committee considered the proposed Pay Policy Statement for 2026/27. The policy aims to address recruitment and retention challenges, particularly in specialist areas, and maintain fair pay practices.

• The Stakes: The pay policy directly impacts the council's ability to attract and retain skilled staff, which is crucial for delivering effective services. It also ensures transparency and fairness in remuneration.
• Key Considerations: The policy addresses ongoing pressures in areas like AI and digital transformation, as well as a trend of retirements. It aims to balance competitive pay with fiscal responsibility. The report noted a mean Gender Pay Gap of 5.6% and a pay multiple of 6.46.

Review of Politically Restricted Posts and Family Leave Policies

The committee also reviewed the list of politically restricted and sensitive posts, a requirement under the Local Government and Housing Act 1989. Reports on family leave policies were also scheduled for discussion, though specific details were marked as restricted.

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a list of upcoming meetings and their main topics:

• Council (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/97656) - Wednesday 04 March 2026 - Discussion of the budget, council tax, capital programme, and adoption of the Wandsworth Local Plan Partial Review.
• Council (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/97416) - Wednesday 04 March 2026 - Review of the local government finance settlement and manifesto promises.
• Licensing Sub-Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/97662) - Thursday 05 March 2026 - Consideration of special treatment licence applications.
• Conservation and Heritage Advisory Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/98349) - Tuesday 10 March 2026 - Discussion of conservation and heritage matters.
• Joint Pensions Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/98356) - Tuesday 10 March 2026 - Review of pensions administration, governance, and investments.
• Audit Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/99053) - Wednesday 11 March 2026 - Review of audit matters.
• Planning Applications Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/99211) - Thursday 12 March 2026 - Review of planning applications.

This week in Wandsworth:

Planning Committee Faces Tough Choices on New Developments and Enforcement

Wandsworth's Planning Applications Committee convened this week to tackle a packed agenda, including controversial new housing developments and the enforcement of existing planning rules. The decisions made have real-world implications for residents' living environments, property values, and the character of our neighbourhoods. Read the full meeting details here.

Housing Developments Spark Resident Concerns

Several planning applications for new housing developments were put before the committee, drawing significant attention and, in some cases, strong objections from local residents.

• The Stakes: Decisions on new housing directly shape our communities, impacting everything from local infrastructure and green spaces to the affordability and character of our neighbourhoods. For existing residents, these developments can mean increased traffic, noise, and a loss of privacy, while for others, they represent much-needed homes.
• 67-85 Aslett Street: An application for a new floor of accommodation to create seven additional two-bedroom units at 67-85 Aslett Street, SW18 2BE, faced objections from neighbours citing loss of privacy, child safety concerns, light pollution, and the development being out of keeping with the area. The proposal was recommended for approval with conditions, including a construction management plan and details on waste management. This development is also liable for the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL), a charge levied on new developments to fund local infrastructure.
• 31-43 Putney High Street: A variation of condition for a mixed-use development at 31-43 Putney High Street, SW15 1SP also drew objections from residents and The Putney Society. Concerns included the site being inappropriate for a hotel, overdevelopment, traffic congestion, and inadequate servicing. Transport for London raised issues with cycle parking, and Thames Water flagged concerns about water infrastructure capacity. The proposal was recommended for approval subject to a legal agreement and CIL liability.
• 14-16 Treport Street: Plans for mansard extensions to create two additional two-bedroom flats at 14-16 Treport Street, SW18 2BP were met with objections regarding loss of daylight, sunlight, outlook, privacy, and overdevelopment. The proposal was recommended for approval with conditions on external materials and refuse storage.

Enforcement Actions Target Unauthorised Structures

The committee also addressed several cases where residents had undertaken work without the necessary planning permission, leading to enforcement actions.

• The Stakes: Enforcement actions are crucial for maintaining planning standards and ensuring that development respects the character of our neighbourhoods and the rights of existing residents. Unauthorised structures can negatively impact amenity, property values, and the overall street scene.
• 3 & 5 Hobbes Walk: An enforcement notice was recommended for the erection of a 2m high timber fence along rear garden boundaries at 3 & 5 Hobbes Walk, SW15 5AQ, which is in breach of an Article 4 Directive within the Dover House Estate Conservation Area. Neighbours complained the fence detracted from the area's character.
• 22 Roehampton Vale: The conversion of a single-family dwelling into three self-contained units, including two short-term let accommodations, at 22 Roehampton Vale, SW15 3RY, was deemed a material change of use. An enforcement notice was recommended to return the property to a single-family dwellinghouse.
• 50 Lavender Gardens: A 2.8m high timber fence along rear garden boundaries at 50 Lavender Gardens, SW11 1DN was considered in breach of permitted development rights, causing overshadowing and enclosure to neighbours. An enforcement notice was recommended to reduce the fence's height to 2m.
• 174 St Anns Hill: A partial breach of condition for an outbuilding at 174 St Anns Hill, SW18 2RS was reported, where internal first-floor ledges remained despite a condition requiring their removal. The recommendation was that it would not be expedient to take enforcement action as no harm was identified.

Finance Committee Reviews Budget and Capital Programme

The Finance Overview and Scrutiny Committee met to scrutinise the borough's budget and council tax proposals for the upcoming financial year, alongside significant investments planned for the capital programme. Read the full meeting details here.

Council Tax Freeze Proposed Amidst Budgetary Pressures

The committee reviewed the proposed budget and council tax for 2026/27, which includes a freeze in Wandsworth's share of the main council tax, coupled with a 2% increase for the adult social care precept.

• The Stakes: This decision directly impacts the household finances of all Wandsworth residents. While a council tax freeze is welcome news for many, the increase in the adult social care precept reflects the growing demand and cost of supporting vulnerable individuals, particularly the elderly and those with disabilities.
• Lowest Council Tax in the Country: The proposed approach aims to maintain Wandsworth's council tax as the lowest in the country, balancing financial prudence with support for residents during the cost of living crisis.
• Budgetary Challenges: The report highlighted a significant and rising budget gap in the coming years, with the council relying on reserves to balance the budget. While Wandsworth has substantial reserves, their continued use is not a sustainable long-term solution.
• Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL): The report also discussed the potential impact of government policy changes on CIL revenues, which are crucial for funding local infrastructure projects.

Major Capital Investment Planned

The committee also examined proposed additions to the General Fund Capital Programme, signalling substantial investment in the borough's future.

• The Stakes: These capital investments are designed to improve local infrastructure, leisure facilities, and public spaces, benefiting residents for years to come. However, they are funded through a mix of grants, developer contributions, and borrowing, which carries long-term financial implications.
• Significant Investment: A total investment of £470.6 million is planned over the next six years, with £52.3 million in new schemes for 2026/27 and beyond.
• Funding Sources: This investment will be financed through grants and contributions (£7.6m), developer contributions (£5.1m), the council's own resources (£39.6m), and borrowing for invest to save schemes (£9.4m).
• Key Projects: Proposed additions include significant investments in the Alton Estate renewal, leisure facilities, highway and public realm improvements, and disabled facilities grants.
• Borrowing Strategy: While Wandsworth has historically avoided external borrowing, the report indicated that it will likely be necessary for future capital expenditure, a decision that requires careful consideration of long-term financial sustainability.

Other Matters

• Licensing Sub-Committee: The Licensing Sub-Committee met to consider applications for new premises licences and a review of an existing licence. Concerns were raised regarding public nuisance, crime and disorder, and the protection of children from harm. Read the full meeting details here.
• Regulatory Licensing Committee: This committee met to discuss proposed changes to discretionary fees and charges for various licences for the 2026/27 financial year. Read the full meeting details here.
• Licensing Committee: The Licensing Committee met to discuss proposed changes to gambling fees for the upcoming financial year. Read the full meeting details here.

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a list of upcoming meetings and their main topics:

• Cabinet (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/96300) - Monday 23 February 2026 - Discussion of the Budget and Council Tax, Capital Programme, Treasury Management Policy, and other key financial and strategic matters.
• Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/96501) - Tuesday 24 February 2026 - Review of St George's Trust performance, VAWG report, and Adult Social Care outcomes.
• Richmond and Wandsworth Joint Staffing Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/96520) - Tuesday 24 February 2026 - Discussion of workforce indicators, pay policy, and family leave policies.
• Council (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/97416) - Wednesday 04 March 2026 - Discussion on the local government finance settlement and review of the administration's manifesto promises.
• Council (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/97656) - Wednesday 04 March 2026 - General council business.
• Licensing Sub-Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/97662) - Thursday 05 March 2026 - Consideration of licensing applications.

This week in Wandsworth:

Council Grapples with Mental Health Strategy and Neighbourhood Health Services

Wandsworth's Health and Wellbeing Board met this week to discuss critical updates on the Joint Local Health and Wellbeing Strategy, the establishment of Neighbourhood Health Services, and efforts to combat drug use. The discussions highlighted a commitment to shifting care into the community and addressing health inequalities, particularly for vulnerable groups. Read the full meeting details here.

Neighbourhood Health Services: Bringing Care Closer to Home

A significant focus was placed on the progress of establishing Neighbourhood Health Services and the Wandsworth Place Provider Alliance. These services are a cornerstone of the NHS's 10-year plan, aiming to deliver care within communities and support residents to live well closer to home.

• The Stakes: For residents, especially those with chronic conditions or limited mobility, these neighbourhood services promise more accessible and integrated care. This could mean shorter waits for support, better coordination between health and social care, and a greater focus on preventative measures, ultimately improving quality of life and reducing hospital admissions.
• Key Priorities: Four neighbourhood footprints have been identified, focusing on areas with the greatest health needs, including Battersea, Roehampton, and Tooting. These will be supported by Core Neighbourhood Leadership Teams, bringing together health and care partners, as well as voluntary and community sector representatives.
• Integration and Prevention: The approach prioritises prevention and aims to reduce health inequalities through integrated health and care systems. Initial priorities include improving GP access, reforming outpatient services, enhancing mental health support, and strengthening the links between primary and secondary care.
• Delegation of Authority: The Board was asked to delegate the sign-off and submission of Wandsworth's neighbourhood health and care plan to the Place Executive (Merton and Wandsworth) NHS South West London Integrated Care Board.

Tackling Drug Use: Progress and Future Plans

The Combating Drugs Partnership presented an overview of its progress, successes, and future steps since its inception in September 2022.

• The Stakes: Drug use has a profound impact on individuals, families, and communities, leading to health crises, crime, and social disruption. Effective partnerships and services are crucial for supporting recovery, reducing harm, and improving public safety.
• Key Achievements: The partnership has overseen activities to improve continuity of care for individuals leaving prison, enhance the local drug information system for swift communication of substance-related harm, and develop emergency procedures for synthetic opioid crises. A new in-house drug and alcohol treatment service for children and young people in Wandsworth has also been established.
• Future Focus: The refreshed Strategic Delivery Plan for 2025 will concentrate on drug and alcohol treatment, children and young people, co-occurring mental health and substance misuse conditions, lived experience, and disrupting the supply chain.

Addressing Health Inequalities and Learning Disabilities

The Board considered a report summarising key themes from a seminar on health inequalities and learning disabilities. The discussions provided direct insights from adults with learning disabilities about their experiences within the healthcare system.

• The Stakes: People with learning disabilities often face significant health inequalities, leading to poorer health outcomes and reduced life expectancy. Amplifying their voices and ensuring their experiences inform service delivery is vital for achieving equitable care.
• Key Themes: The seminar focused on experiences of healthcare, including annual health checks; physical activity and healthy eating; mental health and wellbeing; and social isolation. The report, co-produced with students from Share Community, stressed the importance of promoting independence, enhancing employment opportunities, and fostering social connections.

Joint Local Health and Wellbeing Strategy: Live Well Update

An update on the '19 Steps to Health and Wellbeing' strategy was presented, focusing on adult immunisations, cancer screenings, climate change, and air quality.

• The Stakes: This strategy aims to improve the health and wellbeing of all Wandsworth residents, with a particular focus on tackling inequalities. Progress in these areas directly impacts public health outcomes, from preventing disease through vaccination to mitigating the health effects of environmental factors.
• Progress Highlights: Efforts are underway to increase adult immunisation uptake through community engagement and innovative service delivery. The strategy also addresses increasing coverage for bowel, breast, and cervical cancer screenings by targeting inequalities. Furthermore, it aims to reduce carbon emissions, enhance community resilience, and link air quality improvements to better health outcomes, especially for vulnerable groups.

Environment Committee Champions Sustainability and Green Spaces

The Environment Overview and Scrutiny Committee met to review progress on the Wandsworth Environment and Sustainability Strategy (WESS) and the council's significant investment in parks and play areas. The discussions underscored a strong commitment to environmental action and enhancing community well-being. Read the full meeting details here.

Wandsworth's Climate Action: Significant Strides Made

The committee received an update on the delivery of the Wandsworth Environment and Sustainability Strategy and the Climate Action Plan, highlighting a year of substantial progress.

• The Stakes: Climate change poses a significant threat to our environment and public health. The council's strategy and action plan are crucial for reducing emissions, improving air quality, and building a more resilient borough for current and future generations.
• Key Achievements:
  • A 6.6% reduction in organisational carbon emissions was achieved between 2023/24 and 2024/25.
  • Wandsworth achieved CDP A List status for the third consecutive year, recognising its climate leadership.
  • £4.7 million has been secured for decarbonising council buildings through the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme.
  • The borough has seen an expansion of electric vehicle (EV) chargepoints to 1,642, alongside enhanced cycling infrastructure.
  • Recycling rates have risen to 29.27%, with nearly 5,000 tonnes of food waste diverted.
  • A new Biodiversity Action Plan, 'Wild Wandsworth,' has been developed with extensive community involvement.
• Long-Term Goals: Wandsworth is working towards its net-zero goal by 2043, with a target for the organisation to be carbon neutral by 2030.

Investing in Parks and Play: Enhancing Community Well-being

The committee also reviewed the council's investment in play areas, parks, and open spaces, highlighting a commitment to providing high-quality green spaces for residents.

• The Stakes: Parks and play areas are vital for physical and mental well-being, offering spaces for recreation, social interaction, and connection with nature. Investment in these areas directly benefits residents of all ages, particularly children and families.
• Significant Investment: Over £15 million has been allocated for new and refurbished play spaces between March 2025 and May 2028.
• Green Flag Success: Twelve parks have received Green Flag status, an increase from seven in the previous year, signifying high standards of maintenance and management.
• Community Involvement: Initiatives like the Transforming Tooting Triangle engagement hub demonstrate a commitment to involving residents in shaping their local green spaces.

Task Force Recommends Actions to Prevent Violence Against Women and Girls

The Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) Task and Finish Group met to discuss its findings and recommendations following a comprehensive review into the prevention of VAWG in Wandsworth. The group's report, co-produced with extensive stakeholder input, proposes actionable steps to enhance preventative efforts. Read the full meeting details here.

Key Themes Emerge from Stakeholder Engagement

The review gathered feedback from over 355 individuals, including young people, parents, survivors, frontline workers, and community organisations. Five recurring themes emerged:

• Consistent Conversations: Young people stressed the need for ongoing, explicit discussions about misogyny and VAWG, moving beyond one-off educational sessions to shift societal norms.
• Online Impact: Concerns were raised about how online spaces can isolate young people and make it harder to challenge harmful ideas, as algorithms tailor content without shared reference points.
• Value of Belonging: Accessible, affordable after-school activities were highlighted as crucial for reducing unstructured time and building confidence and a sense of belonging.
• Prevention's Connectivity: While prevention activities exist across various sectors, many felt they were not always well-known, consistently understood, or clearly connected.
• Unequal Experiences: The report acknowledged that VAWG is not experienced equally, and certain groups, including women with no recourse to public funds and LGBTQ+ young people, face additional barriers to accessing prevention and support.

Recommendations for Enhanced Prevention

The Task and Finish Group proposed three key recommendations for consideration by Cabinet:

1. Enhance School-Based Prevention: Increase the reach and visibility of VAWG prevention in schools, with interventions co-produced by young people and aligned with best practices.
2. Strengthen Systemic Approach: Foster a robust system-wide approach across statutory agencies, voluntary organisations, and communities for VAWG prevention and early identification.
3. Ongoing Survivor Engagement: Maintain continuous engagement with survivors, with a renewed focus on seldom-heard communities, to ensure their voices inform service delivery.

The report noted that these recommendations have no direct financial implications and could be met from existing budgets.

Other Matters

• Transport Overview and Scrutiny Committee: This committee met to discuss updates on the Wandsworth Local Plan Partial Review, the Walking and Cycling Strategy, the Highway Maintenance Programme, and car club provision. Read the full meeting details here.
• Local Pension Board: The Board convened to discuss pensions administration, governance, investment, and risk management, including updates on the Pensions Shared Service and the Fit for the Future agenda for the Local Government Pension Scheme. Read the full meeting details here.
• Children's Overview and Scrutiny Committee: This committee reviewed a report on VAWG prevention, the drivers of Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), Wandsworth schools' finance for 2026/27, and the Education Performance Report for 2025-26. Read the full meeting details here.

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a list of upcoming meetings and their main topics:

• Cabinet (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/95640) - Monday 16 February 2026 - Discussion of budget, capital programme, treasury management, and VAWG report.
• Licensing Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/95643) - Monday 16 February 2026 - Review of gambling fees and charges for 2026/27.
• Licensing Sub-Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/95961) - Monday 16 February 2026 - Consideration of new and reviewed premises licences.
• Finance Overview and Scrutiny Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/95660) - Wednesday 18 February 2026 - Review of the budget, council tax, capital programme, and economic development.
• Planning Applications Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/95664) - Thursday 19 February 2026 - Review of planning applications and enforcement actions.
• Richmond and Wandsworth Joint Staffing Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/96520) - Tuesday 24 February 2026 - Discussion of staffing matters.
• Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/96501) - Tuesday 24 February 2026 - Discussion of health-related matters.
• Cabinet (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/96300) - Monday 23 February 2026 - Discussion of budget, capital programme, treasury management, and VAWG report.

This week in Wandsworth:

Council Approves Housing Revenue Account Budget Amidst Rent Increase Debate

Wandsworth Council convened for a special meeting on Wednesday, 4 February 2026, to discuss the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) budget. The meeting saw a robust debate surrounding proposed rent increases, the future of the council's housing stock, and the significant financial challenges facing local government. Read the full meeting details here.

Housing Revenue Account Budget and Rent Increases

A substantial portion of the meeting was dedicated to the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) budget for 2025/26 to 2028/29. The proposals included an average rent increase of 4.8% for council housing tenants from April 2026.

• The Stakes: This decision directly impacts the finances of thousands of Wandsworth residents who rely on council housing. While the council argues the increase is necessary to fund essential repairs, improvements, and new affordable homes, tenants face rising living costs. For vulnerable groups, even a small rent increase can exacerbate financial hardship.
• Proposed Rent Increase: The average increase of 4.8% is intended to ensure the long-term financial viability of the HRA and fund vital investments. The report noted that while some tenants might see lower increases, freezes, or reductions, the average would be around 4.5%. Non-residential charges are proposed to increase by an average of 3.8%.
• Capital Investment: The meeting also discussed additions to the HRA capital programme totalling £241.907 million. This significant investment is earmarked for repairs, improvements, new housing development, and regeneration projects across the borough.
• Tenant Support: The council highlighted its commitment to supporting tenants facing financial difficulties, referencing the Access for All scheme and personalised money workshops. It was stated that the council would never evict a tenant solely based on arrears without exploring all support options.
• Controversy: The proposed rent increase was met with significant opposition from some councillors, who argued it would place an undue burden on residents already struggling with the cost of living. Concerns were also raised about the council's reliance on borrowing to fund its housing plans.

Addressing Housing Stock Deficiencies

The meeting also addressed the critical need to improve the council's housing stock, a point underscored by the Regulator of Social Housing's C3 grading.

• The Stakes: A C3 grading indicates serious failings in housing management, impacting the safety and quality of homes for residents. Addressing these issues is paramount to ensuring tenants live in safe, decent, and well-maintained properties.
• Stock Condition Surveys: The council committed to undertaking 100% stock condition surveys for the first time, aiming to identify hazards and inform a long-term maintenance plan. This is a significant increase from the previous administration's practice of surveying only 1% of stock.
• Fire Remediation: The report noted a reduction in unaddressed fire remediation measures from 1,800 to 285, with a target to complete these by December 2026.
• Water Risk Assessments: Compliance with water risk assessments has risen to 99%, a marked improvement from the 17% compliance rate at the time of inspection.
• Resident Communication: The council is enhancing communication with residents, including the introduction of a WhatsApp reporting service for issues like graffiti and faulty street lights, aiming for a seven-day resolution.

Revisions to Committee Memberships

A separate report concerning revisions to committee memberships was also presented and discussed.

Other Matters

• Tributes to Former Councillor Martin Johnson: The meeting began with tributes to the late Councillor Martin Johnson, MBE, who served the council for 47 years. Councillors from across the chamber shared fond memories of his dedication, attention to detail, and significant contributions to housing and transport policy in Wandsworth. His legacy includes championing the Wandsworth Alternative to major road schemes and his instrumental role in achieving Decent Homes Standard for all council stock.

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a list of upcoming meetings and their main topics:

• Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) Task and Finish Group - Public Meeting (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/95247) - Tuesday 10 February 2026 - Public meeting to discuss violence against women and girls.
• Transport Overview and Scrutiny Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/95250) - Wednesday 11 February 2026 - Discussion of transport policies and projects.
• Health and Wellbeing Board (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/94924) - Thursday 12 February 2026 - Discussion of health and wellbeing initiatives in the borough.
• Environment Overview and Scrutiny Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/95255) - Thursday 12 February 2026 - Discussion of environmental policies and projects.
• Licensing Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/95643) - Monday 16 February 2026 - Discussion of licensing matters.
• Licensing Sub-Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/95654) - Wednesday 18 February 2026 - Consideration of licensing applications.
• Finance Overview and Scrutiny Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/95660) - Wednesday 18 February 2026 - Discussion of financial matters.
• Planning Applications Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/95664) - Thursday 19 February 2026 - Review of planning applications.